In news to thrill moviegoers north (and south) of the border, Scotland’s famous Edinburgh Filmhouse cinema is set to reopen this summer.
After a three-year campaign, the independent cinema on Edinburgh’s Lothian Road will finally throw open its doors and fire up its projectors on June 27, 2025.
Once both Scotland’s leading indie cinema and the home of the Edinburgh International Film Festival (the world’s longest-running film festival), the Filmhouse went into administration in October 2022.
But a successful crowdfunded campaign backed by the likes of Jack Lowden, Brian Cox and Emma Thompson, and support from Screen Scotland, the UK government and other bodies mean that the cinema is back with a £2 million-plus refit, fresh energy and new management.
The new-look Filmhouse will have an extra screen – a bijou, 24-seat fourth screen has been added – and a total capacity of 350 seats. The owners are promising not just a cutting-edge cinema experience, but a vibrant social hub too.
Screens 1, 2 and 3 will reopen on June 27, with the fourth screen opening later in July as the second phase of the development work comes to an end.
The Filmhouse Bar and foyer space have both been reworked and modernised, with comfier cinema seats installed in the screens. The Filmhouse team are keen for returning moviegoers to know that ‘the world-famous nachos are staying put too’.
‘The love for Filmhouse never went away, it was just waiting to be reignited,’ says Filmhouse executive director Andrew Simpson. ‘The incredible response to its closure showed us how vital this space is, not just for Edinburgh, but for audiences across Scotland and beyond. We are returning with fresh energy, a clear plan for the future, and a commitment to delivering world-class film experiences for everyone. Filmhouse belongs to its community, and we’re excited to welcome people back.’
The future of the new-look Filmhouse is secure too. The cinema has signed a 25-year extendable lease within the building’s owners.
Details of Filmhouse’s involvement with this year’s Edinburgh International Film Festival are yet to be announced.
Head to the official website to sign up for updates on the reopening details.
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